Post by HungryHunter on Mar 29, 2015 21:54:22 GMT
A Day for Flowers: The Nadeshiko Festival
Tokyo, Japan
The sound of an alarm clock began to ring within a small apartment, the digital clock was quite adorable being brightly covered with multiple chibi anime character animating on the screen to wake up the 17 year in bed. Kusuri Inoue grumbled a little as she reached over to shut off her alarm clock; laying on top of the girl was a white rabbit like animal with a silver gem in its forehead, the young nurse spotted the date on the clock and suddenly her eyes widen and she sat up with a start. “Oh my god I almost forgot about it!” The white rabbit jumped with a start nearly falling across the room till it landed perfectly almost magically.
The creature looked at her and suddenly it spoke with a surprisingly sophisticated tone (yet it mouth did not move), “You act like it’s a surprise you forgot something. What did you forget this time girlie?” Kusuri gave the rabbit a stern look, “I don’t forget things all the Shinshi just you know….most of the time.” Shinshi rolled its eyes as Kusuri continued, “Besides that why I set the alarm clock this time. Because today is the Nadeshiko Festival!” Shinshi again titled his head slightly at the girl and spoke (somehow) “And what pray tell is the Na-sha-ko festival.” Kusuri quickly hopped out of bed as she began picking out her clothes for the day, “It’s the Nadeshiko festival, and it’s a huge festival to flowers, plants, fragrances, and life that is held at Gurīnraifu Park every year. I promise my friends we would all go to it together and enjoy the day.” Shinshi barely paid any attention to the girl, “A festival for flowers sounds dreadfully boring and girly.” Kusuri turned towards the rabbit glaring “It is not boring…it so amazing all these fresh flowers decorate the park and it’s full of color and life. It’s a fun time for everyone and I can’t wait to share it with my friends.” Shinshi mumbled under his breath about it still sounding girly however he kept mum when the girl rounded on him again. “I been so busy studying and interning that I barely have time for friends. Plus with my duties as a Gem Girl I feel like we are growing distant but today is going to be the best day ever.” The White Rabbit still didn’t care for this flower festival while he understood Kusuri need to be with her friends; after all she was still 17, as one of the magical Gem Girls she had a duty. One that was greater than the wants of a 17 year old girl and festival about flowers she was the Ruby Heart and her first priority should have been finding the other Gem Girls and uniting them and their magic against the Evil Konton Crystal Queen. However Shinshi trusted the girl enough that should would do what was necessary when it came time so one day couldn’t hurt. Unbeknownst to Shinshi and Kusuri…..
___
The Konton Crystal Dimension
Within Konton Castle, a nearly impenetrable fortress located within a hidden dimension where the Evil Konton Crystal Queen reigned at her full power, sat the Queen herself on a violet throne in one a dark scepter with purple crystal at the top. Behind her one could make out several shadowy figures. Just in front her was large tablet with several some crystals imbedded in that glowed dimly. “Hmm it seems that the Mahoseki are starting to appear. It’s time my reign grows and I finally defeat those Mahoseki Warriors once and for all by collected the Gems.” The evil queen let out a dark laugh as she created a swirling pool of energy to locate exactly where the Gems would be appearing. Slowly an image began to form in the mass of swirling energy revealing a park decorated with flowers. One of the shadowy figures step out into the light (what one could assume was male) in a full suite of dark purple metal armor, “That seems to be Tokyo, Japan Madam.” The Konton Queen turned towards him, he was one of her infamous Konran Kishi who led groups of her evil army “You seem familiar with this place Makai Kishi.”
The Metal Knight nodded his head slowly, “Yes mam I have some knowledge of this human city. I am familiar enough with the area that I can find the Mahoseki in no time.” A smirk played on the evil queen’s lips “Those are bold words Makai Kishi.” Another figure stepped out of the shadows revealing a young girl whose entire body seemed to be made of a light green slime, “Don’t worry Mistress I will aid him with my Utsukushī.” The Konton Queen smiled a little at her second Konran Kishi, “Hmm okay Koibito Kishi as long as Makai accepts then there is no reason for me not to object. After all what can seem weak humans do to two of my Konran Kishi the leaders of my Konran Army. HAHAHHAHAHAHA! The evil crystal queen’s dark laughter filled the halls of her palace until she broke it a sinister look coming in her eyes. “However should you two fail me…I will personally see that your punishment is as slow and cruel as possible.” Neither Makai nor Koibito said anything however from the shadows the other Konran Kishi could not hide a smirk or two. Makai broke the silence his voice as cold as steel, “Don’t worry My Lady we will not fail you.” The Queen smirked again as she created a portal of swirling energy that would take the two to Tokyo as well as a glowing purple crystal. “Take a Konton crystal with you. It will corrupt the body, mind, and soul of a heartbroken individual and allow their inner chaos to reign. That should be enough for any humans to deal with while you two find the Mahoseki.” Makai took the Konton Crystal and nodded a silent thank you as both him and Koibito stepped into the portal.
___
Warden watched the girls like a hawk, extra eyes hidden beneath his hair, watching the world around him in infrared. Ariana had insisted he stay back a little so she could chatter at the older girl unfiltered. Likely because she was talking about pirates and the words she had learned from them. After Arthur had helped him out on Nassau, he had offered to let Loveline have a playdate with Ariana, since they could both use the company of other children.
Arthur had graciously gotten them to Tokyo, where some sort of parade or festival was going on. Against his better judgement, he accepted this location. Why? Why? Ariana was worrying enough on her own on a sparsely populated island. Now she had an accomplice to drag into danger, heading towards a park with untold amounts of people. This idea was terrible. Why did he let Arthur talk him into this. Why?
While Warden was having his breakdown, Ariana was having the time of her life. She had a captive audience in Loveline, one of the first people her age she had been allowed to talk to in years, and Warden was actually letting her do something. A flower festival was hardly an adventure, but it might as well be one. "...and it turned out he was evil!!" He dropped a major twist in the story of her life to Loveline, awaiting her amazed reaction.
Loveline was glad that she was going to this flower festival. She wanted to go for a while now, but she wasn't that optimistic that dad would let her. He would probably want to stay with Hazel and since Loveline's only eleven years old, he wouldn't let her be in Japan alone. Luckily, the frost mage made some good friends in Nassau who just so happened to be willing to take her there so both of them could be happy.
So far, Loveline liked the friends Arthur made. Warden seemed a bit over-protective of Ariana, but he was a nice person over all. Must have been, or Arthur wouldn't have let him take Love with him. Ariana on the other hand seemed very cheerful and friendly. And she apparently liked to tell stories based on real events. Since Arthur already told Loveline the whole story of Nassau, she could notice the parts that Ariana embellished. But honestly? She preferred Ariana's version.
"Gasp." She feigned surprise and shock at the big reveal. "What did you do then?"
___
Leora is walking through the park and was glad that she could make it to the flower festival in Tokyo. She was there today as a guest for an organization that had made significant donations to charities that Leora was a member of and they ask her to come to the festival as a way to celebrate both of their accomplishments in the summer season. Leora normally would want to help people nonstop, but building the relationship between such a generous organization and charities would help so many people in the long run.
Leora continues to walk and every step she took seems to add to the beauty of the flowers around her and the flowers to her. Each of the flowers was arrange in such a graceful and colorful way that they compliment each other to the fullest and with Leora’s presence it could be consider a match made in heaven. Leora was just wearing her simple white dress, but many eyes were looking at her. Not in lust or anything wrong, but rather looking at her because she was emitting an aura that was overwhelming with such positive and pleasant emotions that just added to the festive spirit.
Leora was planning on going to a small party with some representatives of the origination mention earlier and they were having the gathering in the flower festival. Leora moves to the location she was given and stops. She notices Warden. I can’t belief it. It’s Warden. I need to say hello to him, she thought. She goes to Warden and with her sweet and gentle voice she says in a cheerful manner, “Hello Mr. Warden! It’s sooooo good to see you again.” Leora said this while giving him a warm hug that probably could have won the best hug of the year award. She exits the embrace slowly and continues by saying, “I’m really happy that I get to see you and Ariana again." Leora looks at Ariana to see her with another girl, who appears to be around her age. Leora was glad to see Ariana as well. "I hope the two of you are enjoying your time here in this time,” she says with a playful wink at the corny joke she just made. Which was quickly followed by a short wonderful laugh that brought with it her vibrant and contiguous smile that could relieve almost any ill feelings that a person might be having, which would be replace with a joyful sensation and smile of their own.Sitting on one of the numerous park benches, Haruko Miyata looks out at the beautiful scenery filled with dozens of different kinds of flowers. Instead of her normal battle attire, Haruko wore a simple lacy blue t-shirt over a pair of white shorts. A small expensive-looking camera hung around her neck by it's strap, having already been used to photograph much of the flower festival. In her lap rested a simple sketchbook with a light outline of various shirts and dresses, each having a different design based off of the scenery in front of her.
The main reason why Haruko was back in Japan was simple; to actually have a proper vacation in this country. After the Osaka incident, she had decided to keep her travels this time limited to Tokyo, which fortunately was holding this flower festival while she was still in the country. So in addition to admiring the scenery, Haruko figured she could try and sketch some new designs for her line of clothing. Something as flowery and vibrant as this scenery would surely draw some attention from the people visiting her shop in California.
Mid-sketching another shirt though, the pink-haired seamstress detects a few familiar ki signatures coming from the right. Looking over, she found Ariana and Loveline strolling along the path. Further back, she could see Warden conversing with the pleasant lady she met at Nassau. What a mess that adventure turned out to be. Waving at them slightly, she smiled as they approached. "Hey! Fancy meeting you guys here."
___
Kusuri arrived to the Nadeshiko Festival with light footsteps and a big smile wearing a simple t-shirt with some of her favorite anime characters on it along with a pair of jeans. The Gem Girl had on a back pack with some goodies for the day, following behind her was Shinshi. The White Rabbit let out a sigh then again spoke to Kusuri without moving its mouth. “Jeez Girl could have slowed down a bit. I had to run after you which is not an easy task in this body.” The young girl laughed a little taking out a small carrot and handing it to the rabbit, “I’m sorry Shinshi. I promise my friends I would be here at a certain time and it’s important that I’m here because I promised to bring snacks so we can picnic.” Shinshi reluctantly munched despite being a rabbit carrots were probably his least favorite food.
“So where are you supposed to meet your friends girl? I don’t see them around.” The Nurse in training laughed a little, “Oh well they won’t be here for at least thirty minutes.” Shinshi comically reacted to this revelation, “But you said you were late earlier! We ran all the way just so you didn’t miss them! If you were going to be early why did you rush?” The Gem Girl just titled her head and laughed a little, “Well because I’m always late I decided to leave earlier so that no matter what I wouldn’t be late. Besides now we can look at some the flowers before they arrive.” Shinshi dropped his head unable to reply to that logic.
Kusuri and Shinshi casually walked through the park taking in all the sights and sounds of the Nadeshiko festival. The park was a beautiful collage of vibrant colors, a sweet fragrance of combined aromas from the flowers and fried food, and a calming melody of music from the band playing. As Kusuri walked around she took notice of some people including a young girl doing some sketches. It seemed the girl was soon greeted by friends she knew. Kusuri even walked passed one of the prettiest girls she ever seen who seemed to make everything around her even more beautiful. It seemed like everyone was having an amazing day.
___
However as everyone was enjoying the Nadeshiko Festival a powerful evil was about to bloom as Makai and Koibito emerged a swirling pull of shadowy energy into Japan. The slime girl was delighted by the sights and sounds of the human. She gazed down and saw the park where the Nadeshiko Festival was taking place. “Oh wow there should is a lot of humans down there is this some sort of ritual.” The Shadow Knight reply was cold, “No humans are small minded creatures and take pleasure in the most trivial elements. This is a festival to celebrate flowers.”
Koibito was still impressed with it despite Makai’s negative statement, “Hmm if they are impressed with that wait till they get a load of me.” Before The Slime Knight could act on her instinct Makai placed a hand on her shoulder, “Remember our mission Koibito we are here to find the Mahoseki. We don’t have time for you to indulge yourself in pleasure.” The Slime Girl sighed a little as she turned towards Knight her slime body shifting to a sultrier more with a bigger bust and rump. “You know Makai you need to lighten up. You take things ways to seriously. How about you remove this armor and indulge in some pleasure yourself.” Makai pushed the girl away and she shifted more this time taking on a more boyish form, Hmm women not your thing Makai. What about boys? Or are you a Lolita fan?” The Slime Girl shifted form to her original appearance but the Knight didn’t respond making Koibito pout. “You are no fun Makai.”
___
Leroa's dumb joke and hug brought a warmth to Warden's heart that was rarely seen. He smiled down at the wonderful woman. "Leora, let go. You're restricting my movement." He could easily struggle free, but exerting any force on Leora seemed impossible, and body manipulation would draw too much attention. He was surprised to see that Haruko was here as well. "Hello Haruko. I'm guessing we're all here for the flower festival?" While he liked seeing so many allies here, it was always worrying to see this many hidden world members in one spot. Something was going to happen.
Ariana was less worried. "Jardsam saved me. He made the robots melt by making a rule and the Master said 'screw the rules!' and stabbed him in the face but it didn't hurt him and they kept fighting until your dad came and stopped them right before he stabbed me and he jumped out the window because the other Demon Gods showed up and Jardsam acted really weird with them!" She took a moment to take a breath and noticed the newcomers. "Leora! Haruko!" She joined the hug with Leora and Warden. "These two were on Nassau too!" She informed Loveline. These two were fun for grown ups and they could fill the gaps in her story. Which reminded her "And one of them just looked at Jardsam and..."
"Looks like we are Warden! What a coincidence to find you all here." Smiling, Haruko puts away her pen and sketchbook into her Kaspa and joins the group hug right behind Leora. She knew Warden hated hugs, but she figured he wouldn't hurt Leora or Ariana, so it was safe to use them as a sort of meat shield.
"Nice seeing you all again! How have things been with you all?" She makes a quick glance from Warden, to Leora, Ariana, and finally Loveline. Odd how she was here without Arthur...but not odd enough to ask about.
Before Leora could get a chance to say anything to Haruko, Haruko decided to join the group hug. Leora was just smiling at Haruko for the kind greeting and says, "It's great to sea you again Haruko. And so far I've been doing my best to help some folks in need. It's the reason I'm here actually. You see later I got to go to this party that is being host by my charity's biggest donor. Anyway how have you been?"
Leora was really happy to see everyone enjoying themselves....with maybe the exception of Warden, who looked a little unease. Leora could tell that he was thinking about something. "Is everything okay?" she asks in her sweet and innocent voice, which could move the very soul of a person.
It didn't take long for Warden and Ariana to meet people who know them. Unfortunately, they were all apparently the hugging kind of people. Not even Leora's magnificent aura could stop Loveline from feeling awkward while watching the hug pile-up and being left out of it. Luckily, it didn't last too long and they moved on to conversing about how they spent their time since they last met, again leaving Loveline out of it because, of course, she was a stranger in this group. But she won't let it stay that way for long!
"Won't you introduce me to your friends first?" Loveline interrupted Ariana's story and looked at her with an expectant smile.
The Power of the Konton Crystal
As Kusuri wandered around the Nadeshiko Festival waiting for her friends she began to take some pictures of all the beautiful flowers and all the fun events going on around her. She took notice of a group of people who were seemingly hugging. “Oh wow Shinshi look at that all those people. The most be really good friends uniting after a long time at the festival.” The White Rabbit rolled his eyes as it spoke to the young girl “What gave it away, that they are all embracing? You humans tend to show your affections in the weirdest way.” The nurse in training glared at the rabbit. “There is nothing wrong with a hug between friends.” The young girl quickly rushed over to the group smiling, she didn’t want to interrupt them so she politely cleared her throat to get their attention. “Um excuse me everyone. My name is Kusuri Inoue. I don’t mean to interrupt but I was just taking some pictures of the festival when I saw you. I wondered if you would be okay with me taking your picture. After all you seem like such good friends I thought you would want something to remember today by.”
The White Rabbit followed behind the girl who represented the Ruby Heart, he still had trouble believing that his Queen entrusted this girl with the future of the Mahoseki. Kusuri was an untrained girl who barely had a grasp on the potential of her abilities, she rather spend the time friends than mastering control of the Mahoseki she possessed. The rabbit sighed he once was a guardian to the Queen now he was the guardian to a teen girl being constantly drawn into her silly plans. The rabbit drew closer to group that Kusuri wanted to photograph when the tiny silver gem in his head began to glow his eyes widening a little. “What a Mahoseki is going to appear? But why here? This magical charge is so strong. I never felt anything like it before.” The White Rabbit began to glance around before running off leaving Kusuri behind as he searched for where the gems could appear. The young girl noticed her pet run off. “Wait Shinshi where are you going?”
___
Meanwhile as Shinshi searched for where the Magical Gems could appear the two Konran Kishi plotted. Koibito the Suraimu Kishi was growing quite impatient, “Makai we are wasting time here for all we knew the Mahoseki could be appearing already.” Makai the Kage Kishi grunted a little from within his shadowy armor, “Do not be a fool Koibito. If the Mahoseki did appear we would be altered by the Konton Crystal. The Mahoseki and Konton Crystal work like opposite charges; one positive the other negative. Therefore there are slightly attractive to each other and react strongly to one another’s presence. The power of the Konton Crystal is that it can twist, corrupt, and distort everything in an environment or individual.” Despite Makai’s explanation Koibito could care less, “This is sooooooooooo boring. If the two react to each other then let’s just go down there and stir up trouble to force the Mahoseki to appear.”
The slime girl’s impatient was testing Makai’s patience he yet again corrected her, “I said don’t be a fool girl! There are other factors here that could affect our mission. In this dimension there are certain individuals who possessed great powers without either the Mahoseki or Konton Crystal.” The Suraimu Kishi smirked a little becoming more interested, “Hmmm oh really now they sounds like fun. Humans with their own powers I got to see this.” Makai let out a dark chuckle, “Oh you will as a part of my plan. With your Utsukushī you can distract those humans long enough for me to use the Konton Crystal to draw out the Mahoseki. Then I will target the Ruby Heart.” Koibito titled her head curiously, “Why is the Ruby Heart so important? Shouldn’t the Mahoseki be our top priority?” The Kage Kishi chuckled again, “Silly girl you should pay attention more, instead of trying to gain more lovers. Whle individually the Ruby Heart is the weakest of the Mahoseki combined with the others it becomes the most powerful. Not only boosting the others but gaining strength from them. Therefore by dealing with the Ruby Heart you essentially weaken the others.”
The Slime Girl smirked a bit as she began creating her Utsukushī, slime clones that represented all the lovers she had acquired, a number reaching in the hundreds. The Utsukushī were vague forms of men, women, and children made entirely of green slime. Despite being naked their features were non-existent just various curves here and there. The slime clones began to shift to blobs and spread out preparing to strike. However before Koibito left she had one last question for Makai, “Something I am curious about Makai. You not only seem to know a lot about this world even knowing this city, but these people and knowledge about their forces. How did you gather all this information?” The Kage Kishi was silent for a moment before letting out a deep sigh, “As I said earlier you should pay attention more girl. My Kage no Me allows me to view everything from the shadows. I rather not spend my time in bed.” Koibito giggled a little, “Oh Makai one day I’ll get you out of that armor and show you what kind of information I gather from my bed.” With that the girl slimed away to await orders. Meanwhile Makai held the Konton Crystal, “Now Ruby Heart you will learn the power of the Konton Crystal.”
___
"I told you that you're restricting my movement." With a series of movements that were too subtle to perceive, he was out of the group hug. Ariana left easier, just turning to find Loveline standing, looking completely left out. She didn't have a lick of shyness, despite some odd social quirks that came from her upbringing. It hadn't occurred to her that Love might be a little shy in the face of this many strangers.
"I met Leora on Nassau, and Haruko right before I went there. Haruko's really fun and Leora's really nice!" While she really didn't know either enough to really form a relationship with them, Ariana made friends quickly, mostly out of having no other choice. When you move a lot, make friends quick or give up on having them. Haruko felt like a cool older sister, nice and fun, a replacement for Eve on her good days. Leora was a bit different. She was still thankful for her comfort on Nassau when Ariana was afraid of the Harvester. She felt like she would be great mom. But Warden of course didn't care about anybody like that. Whatever like that meant.
She couldn't leave Love out of the hugs of course. Even if the others were strangers, she wasn't! "Do you want in on the hugs?" She outstretched her arms, hugging Loveline only if she accepted. If she was already uncomfortable, Ariana didn't want to scare her away. Warden's eyes were the only out of the two's who noticed the newcomer. A local or another tourist? He couldn't tell. She talked about photos and Ariana needed no further cue. She blushed and hid her face a little. "I'm afraid my daughter is camera shy." Warden's words were directed at the young girl, but his eyes were locked on the small animal beside her. He didn't recognize the species, although it was clearly a mammal. A quick switch to thermal confirmed that. It's head was glowing. He didn't have time to appreciate Ariana's acting- he had a matter more pressing than a photograph on his mind.
"Who are you?" There was no threat in his voice with Leora there, but he was clearly asking for more than her name. He grabbed her wrist with a grip of steel as she turned to watch the leaving creature. He didn't need her running. "And what is that?"
Leora felt a tiny bit sad when Loveline was feeling that terrible sensation of not belonging. Leora walks up to the young girl and crouches down to her eye level saying with a somewhat embarrassed face, "I'm sorry. I really should have acknowledge you better. I hope you can forgive me." as Leora was asking for forgiveness, she was also stroking the back of her head as if she made a silly mistake, then suddenly Leora face changes as if she just got a great idea. Leora the says, "Well how about this " Leora then gently puts her hands together with Loveline's hands and says with her world class smile that made the world feel like a brighter and friendlier place, "We'll become friends and then if you want we can have another group hug later when you get to know everyone else." Leora let that statement hang in the air for a few seconds before she follows up by tilting her head slightly and says with a cute chuckle "Even though it going to be a little difficult to convince Warden over there."
Leora releases Loveline hands and turns her head, so she could be facing Warden. She was going to say to Loveline that Warden is actually a nice guy even though he can be a little intimidating, but stop herself when she saw Warden's steel grip on another person. Leora then laughs more to herself then anything and looks back at Loveline saying, "Maybe its going to take a lot of convincing." Leora wasn't worried about the girl. Thanks to her compassionate understanding ability, she knew that Warden was just being his usual overprotective self and not really trying to harm the girl. The girl on the other hand was too sweat for Leora to think she could possible turn out to be a enemy.
Leora says to Loveline and Ariana in a playful voice, "Sorry girls, I need to apologize for someone real quick." Leora gracefully gets back up and walks over to Warden. "Warden isn't there a better way to say no to someone taking your picture?" asks Leora. Leora than places her hand on Warden's hand and uses her physically happiness ability to relax Warden's hand to the point of releasing his grip on the girl's wrist along with calming down the girl that Warden grabbed as well. Leora bows her head in an apologetic bow saying, "Please forgive my friend over here." Even in this position, Leora seem to emulate a type of aura that would resonate warmly with a person's very existence.
Loveline was surprised how big of a deal the slight awkwardness had become, but she couldn't complain. It was entertaining, to say the least. She naturally accepted Ariana's hug and even hugged back. Then she listened to Leora's apology and suppressed a chuckle. "Sure, a second hug sounds wonderful." She replied and watched the avatar of goodwill and compassion go take care of the Warden/Kusuri problem. Then she turned back to Ariana and whispered "You really have some weird friends, you know?"
On second thought, she wasn't the only one with weird friends. Really, superpowered people were either weird or had weird friends. Love wondered which one she would be when she grows up but she quickly shook the question away. "Should we help her calm the situation down or do you want to continue your story?" She asked Ariana.
Haruko noticed Warden approach Kusuri and grab hold of her, asking what exactly was the interesting creature that she had with her originally. The battle seamstress was about to step in between the two...but luckily Leora was there to save the day with her emotion manipulation powers. Well...I suppose there is no need to diffuse a situation if you have Leora around, is there? Haruko thinks to herself, smiling a little.
Walking over to Kusuri, Warden and Leora, Haruko looks at the new arrival. "Why, hello there Kusuri! My name is Haruko Miyata, nice to meet you. I noticed you had an interesting pet back there...what kind of animal was that?" She asks, trying to strike up a friendly conversation with Kusuri while Leora handled Warden.
Slime Ambush!
Before Kusuri had even a split second to think about where Shinshi was running off to one of the people, a tall thin man, grabbed the girl’s wrist demanding answers about her pet rabbit. The young nurse in training panicked as the man gave off a threatening aura. His grip was like steel not allowing her to pull away. “Um…Um…I…don’t…know what…you are….talking about? Shinshi is just my pet. I told you my name was Kusuri Inoue I just wanted to take your picture.” She held up the camera to show him she meant no harm.
___
Meanwhile as Warden was confronting Kusuri, Makai was setting up his trapped to lure out the Mahoseki and Ruby Heart. The Kage Kishi suddenly emerged from the shadows of some trees located away from the others. He communicated to Koibito through a smaller Konton Crystal that all the Konran Kishi used it allowed them to communicate magically without fear of being interfered with. “Now listen carefully Koibito when I give the signal you strike at the humans with your Utsukushī I will use the Konton Crystal to create an unstoppable monster. When Ruby Heart appears I will single her out and fight her allowing us to capture the other Mahoseki they appear.” Koibito reply came through the crystal, one could sense the excitement in her voice. “Oh Makai this is wonderfully it reminds me of the Gem Wars. There are so many delicious looking humans here. I will have to take a couple back with me to interrogate.” Makai sighed a little, despite the slime girl being one of the more powerful Konran Kishi her attention was always more focused on lust and therefore one of the most unpredictable. “Hey Makai you still haven’t said what you will corrupt using the Konton Crystal?” The Kage Kishi gripped the Konton Crystal, some arrogance bleeding into his metallic voice. “Hmmm that is simple girl. I plan to use the Konton Crystal to corrupt this whole festival. As I mention before this is a festival for flowers. The Konton Crystal can only corrupt living things some as humans, animals, or even every single plant these pathetic humans planted. I’m going to plant my own seeds into this soil to turn their festival into a nightmare.” Both Koibito and Makai started laughing manically as he plunged his fist and the crystal into the dirt causing several darks purple sparks and electricity to flow through the ground. Anyone with bit of magical/ki/NE/whatever what sense a slight shift but wouldn’t see the effects till later.
___
Back to Kusuri she was trying to find suitable answers for Warden when one of the girls from his group approached the two of them. The women instantly gave off the polar opposite aura than what the man did. She was like the living embodiment of kindness. Her voice was light and airy it calmed Kusuri and she felt the man’s grip relax (apparently his name was Warden from what the women said). When Leora bowed her head and apologized the nurse in training was quite surprised and felt like she should be the one apologizing from some reason. “No, no it’s okay. I’m sure your friend didn’t mean it Shinshi usually doesn’t act like that. I just wanted to take a picture of you all because you seem like such good friends my name is Kusuri.”
Another one of the girls came over and politely introduced herself as Haruko Miyata, “Nice to meet you Haruko. As for Shinshi I’m not entirely sure what kind of animal he is.” Kusuri had to think for a minute she couldn’t quite reveal that she was some type of magical girl and Shinshi was a magical rabbit. “I find him lost one day and he became quite close to me. He is a bit stubborn sometimes but I never really ran off like that before. Maybe he just got skittish from all the people around.” As Kusuri spoke she reached out and touched Haruko hand and instantly felt something strange. The ruby heart necklace she wore around her neck seemed to resonate with everything around her and glowed a bit. The Ruby Heart fit felt a small surge of magical energy that make her tremble rendering her speechless. Kusuri was sure what to make of it as she pulled away from Haruko however before she could process what just happen an chorus of panic screams began to break out all around and people ran in different directions. “What’s going on?” Kusuri turned around and was terrified to witness some strange green blobs emerging from the ground, trees, and bushes forming into shapes of men and women. The ruby heart around her neck began to glow again as she realized this was an attack form the Konton Crystal Queen.
___
Meanwhile Shinshi was rushing around trying to determine the source of Mahoseki magical energy yet the power some to be coming from all directions let something was out of flux. Despite his promise to his Queen to protect and train Kusuri to be a great Mahoseki Gem Warrior finding the other magic gems were more important to him. There was a bit of selfishness to his desires finding the other Mahoseki meant new Gem Warriors could be recruited which meant Kusuri would not be needed as much. And when Kusuri was needed he wouldn’t have to train her and he could once again return to his solemn duty protecting his Queen. Before Shinshi could continue his search his own senses picked up on the slime clone emerging around him. One even appeared right in front of him, but the White Rabbit would not be hindered. “I beg your pardon but….GET OUT OF MY WAY!” In a blur of silver energy Shinshi turned into a silver comet as he began to spin like a high powered drill going straight through the slime clone destroying it instantly. Shinshi landed on the ground perfectly as more slime closed in around him. "These slime creatures could only be the work of Koibito Kishi. But that means…..Oh no! The Konran Kishi are on the trail of the Mahoseki as well! Kusuri can handle these slime creatures by herself I need to find those other gems. After all I trained the girl well enough she needs to learn on her own now! Kusuri has been acting like a girl for far too long she needs to choice not to step up and accept the responsibilities of the powers the Queen bestowed upon her. I am not a baby sitter I am a Guardian of the Mahoseki and my Beloved Queen! You disgusting slimes are hindering my mission and that is something. I….CANNOT….ALLOW!”
___
"Leora isn't weird!" Ariana protested, defending her older friend against the nonexistent insult. At the question of whether to help or not, she turned to survey the situation. "Leora looks like she has it." Indeed she did, as Warden released his grip. His muscles had relaxed on their own, but he withdrew his hand by choice. “No, no it’s okay. I’m sure your friend didn’t mean it. Shinshi usually doesn’t act like that. I just wanted to take a picture of you all because you seem like such good friends my name is Kusuri.”
The way she babbled reminded him of Ariana when she got excited, made of run on sentences and too few breaks for air. She wouldn't take much pushing to let something of interest slip from her lips. Force wasn't an option in his present company, so he'd just play it smart. He could do that. "I'm sorry if I frightened you. I didn't mean to." A simple tweak to his face and his smile rivaled Leora's in warmth and friendliness. "I simply wanted to know what sort of animal it was." He offered his hand again, this time to shake. "I'm Warden Harper, and this is my daughter Ariana." Just keep her talking. She'd have to reveal something.
Before she responded to his gesture, his ears began picking up the very first scream. Before it finished, he had seen the green slime approaching. He had sealed his body against it, mouth and nose covered up in bone. He had turned his arms into great scissored claws, although he didn't know how much that would do against creatures more malleable than himself. He had grown tentacles from his leftover flesh, his chest a writhing mass. He moved in front of Ariana, swinging his gigantic bone claws at the nearest being of slime.
Ariana instantly gravitated towards Leora when Warden began stomping around. She pulled her knife from the hidden pocket in her backpack, ready to defend somebody else for once. It made it better that it was Leora. She owed her, and while she wouldn't admit it, having her calming powers was pretty nice when things were getting rough around her.
Leora was hoping that the girl wasn't hurt by Warden's grip. Knowing him, he probably was being overprotective of Ariana again. Leora sighs to herself when she hears Ariana yelling. So Loveline thinks I'm weird, Leora says to herself in a somewhat depressing mood. I knew I should have hugged her sooner. [Leora, you don't have time to regret not hugging someone right now.] Leora's mood turns rather serious and asks, What's wrong Compassion? [It seems that a certain Queen has sent her forces to attack the flower festival.] Queen? asks Leora. [The Konton Crystal Queen to be more precise. Trust me when I say that she is a dangerous threat, but thankfully she isn't participating in this battle herself.] So who's attacking then?
Suddenly the air itself begins to carry a certain twisted breeze that would cause goosebumps to appear. It was a clear warning sign of a unwanted supernatural event taking place, and as quickly as the breeze was felt, it disappears into the endless night. What was that? asks Leora. [Your senses. Its seems that you are feeling that something is currently happing. Something unnatural and corrupted.] We have to stop it! [It's too late Leora, the Queen's troops have already cast their spell.] Leora studies the others as they were talking to each other. Leora looks at the Kusuri, who seems to notice that something was wrong, which was quickly followed by Warden. Leora could feel the suffering of the poor unexpected victims, as their agony rings throughout the air and resonates with Leora's being. WHAT"S GOING ON!? Leora turns around to see green slime monsters attacking. Warden quickly transform his body in order to defend against this new threat. Ariana moves toward Leora as Warden deals with the Nickelodeon slime monsters.
Leora then gently places her hand on Loveline and pulls her softly within arm's range. Leora had no clue if the young girl was capable of protecting herself and she wasn't going to risk it. A few slime creatures approach Leora. Leora in turn uses her Physical Happiness ability to stop the slime's movements. The Slime creatures didn't just stop, they slowly start to change shape until they turn into a puddle of still slime. Compassion is there a way to stop this? [Your best chance is to work together with the one call Kusuri. She is everyone's best chance of surviving this experience.] "Kusuri" said Leora. "We need you right now." Leora didn't know how Kusuri was suppose to help, but Compassion seems certain that she was the key to all of this.
"S- Sorry. I didn't mean it in a bad way..." Loveline said after Ariana yelled at her. A minute or so later, after it was decided that Leora could handle the Warden/Kusuri situation on her own, Loveline looked around trying to find something interesting to do and/or pretty flowers to look at. That's why she noticed the slimes at the same time Warden did. She was going to get ready for a fight just like the shapeshifter, but Leora had other plans and pulled her closer. Was she worried? About a girl she never met before? Heh, she really was a weird person, but she was also very sweet.
"It's okay, you don't have to worry about me." Loveline said and patted Leora's hand. "I can take care of myself." She stepped forward, next to Ariana, and the hand that was on Leora's just a second ago turned into a dragon's claw with razor sharp nails. Though she was nervous. Truth be told, she never really fought on her own very much. Usually she chased people away with illusions and if that didn't work, she would turn someone, usually one of the intruders, into a beast which would kill the others. That is not to say she never dirtied her hands, but she still didn't have much experience.
And it's been almost two years since she had to do any of that (Oh, how time flies). Hopefully, some slimes wouldn't pose a problem even if she is rusty.
Haruko stared as Kusuri touched her hand, then reeled back as if she had touched an electrified door knob. Before she could ask Kusuri what was wrong, a scream rang out through the air, instantly catching Haruko's attention. Not even ten minutes after seeing these guys, and there is already stuff going wrong. Though I'd be willing to bet that rabbit running off has something to do with these slime creatures. Note to self; ask Kusuri more questions after dealing with these guys.
Reaching into her jacket pocket, Haruko draws five of her explosive knives and takes aim at five of the nearby slime creatures. In five quick motions, all five knives fly off and fly toward their targets, the knives filled with enough gunpowder to send bits of their slimey bodies in every direction. Dang, I can't do much against slime creatures with my wires. Looks like I have to stick to using my explosive knives...however many I brought along with me. Luckily, she noticed how Warden was also lending a hand with his body manipulation, and if Arthur is to be believed, Loveline could handle herself just fine. Ariana and Leora though...they might need some assistance.
"Kusuri! Do you have any idea what these things are, or why they seemed to have shown up right after your pet took off?" Not knowing how effective Kusuri was at combat, Haruko stood next to her, explosive knives at ready. Warden and Loveline were probably more than enough to protect Ariana and Leora, so it fell onto Haruko to see just what the heck was going on.
Slime Ambush! (Part II) Koibito Attacks!
The Slime Clones of Koibito Kishi were all over the place, they were dripping down from the trees, oozing up from the ground, or plopping down from the sky before taking their vaguely humanoid shapes. Their limbs extending into tendrils that would wrap around helpless victims lifting them high into the air (often exposing the undergarments of young ladies). Some would absorb the victims into their gelatin like bodies. What most people didn’t realize about the Utsukushī and Koibito herself was that the slime that made up their bodies worked like an aphrodisiac being in contact with in would cause intense pleasure which grew stronger the longer the contact was or the more the area was covered. This caused many of the victims to slowly give in to the overwhelming pleasure turning screams of fear to those of ecstasy.
All the while Koibito watched smirking a little to herself as she mentally made note of which victims she would bring back to the Konton Crystal Dimension to turn into her mates, ravishing their body, minds, and souls before turning them into another member of her Utsukushī. That was until she took interest of a particular girl who was fighting some of her slimes with knives. The girl looked young (a plus for Koibito), cute with her pink hair and adorable outfit, and her use of knives meant she LOTS of knife play. The Slime Knight smirked a little as she decided she wanted the young pink hair girl.
Back over to Kusuri the poor girl was in a state of shock not because of the ambush of Slime Clones but because of Warden’s sudden shift into a terrifying creature of claws and tendrils. “What…what…what are you?” As Warden slashed at the slime clone its body was ripped in half with the upper section going flying. The legs remained where they were for a few moments before they started to shift and morph into a blob while the upper sections moved back to the legs reforming into another clone. Kusuri really didn’t hear what Haruko had said she was already running off into the opposite direction. “What are those guys? I never seen anyone morph their bodies like that!”
The poor girl’s heart was pounding in her chest as she hid behind a tree, “Are they with the Konran Kishi somehow. I just wanted a normal day with my friends why did I have to run into those strange people, why did these slime creatures’ choice to attack now? Are these the kind of people my brother meant what he said he wanted to investigate the Hidden World.” Despite being a Magical Gem Warrior Kusuri was still a young girl at heart and always looked to her brother for courage however it had been several months if not a year since he had sought to investigate this Hidden World and disappeared. But then she had met Shinshi…SHINSHI. “Oh no where is he? Why did he choice now to run off I need his help what do I do?” As Kusuri got closer and closer to a panic attack she didn’t notice the Utsukushī oozing down from the tree.
Meanwhile back at Haruko and the others locatios the slime clones that the Battle Seamstress had blown up sent droplets of the pleasure inducing slime in all directions including right at both Loveline and Arianna. While Leora’s Physical Happiness seemed to affect the slime clones it was for a brief moment the slime’s bodies seemed to liquefy a bit but it only seemed to make them faster and swifter. They began to maneuver around the Embodiment of Compassion in circles only then stop and simultaneously attack with whip-like tendrils of slime. The added liquid like texture of the slime increased their velocity making them even deadlier. Behind Warden two more slimes formed both in the humanoid form of young girls at first one may be taken back their slight cuteness however they were just as deadly as any other of the Slime Clones. Each one fired bullet-like projectiles at the body guard the slime bullets were aimed at his arms, legs, and back in a shotgun like volley.
Meanwhile unbeknownst to Haruko the creator of the slime clones were forming behind her, a smirk on the slime’s knight face. “Wow! When I was told that you humans were strong I wasn’t expecting this.” As Koibito Kishi spoke to the group her eyes were more focused on Haruko than anyone else. “Let me introduce myself so you may know the name of the person who will defeat you. I am Koibito, one of the Konton Crystal Queen’s powerful Konran Kishi. What you are fighting are my Utsukushī, former lovers of mine who I turned into my perfect slime slaves. Each one has a hundredth of my actual strength.” The slime girl licked her lips as she waited for one of the humans to attack her slimes forming all around them. She wanted to draw Haruko away from the group so that she could take her first, then Warden seeing as his powers were similar to hers he could be a great playmate. The two Lolis were cute but would break easily and finally Leora her magic abilities would be an interesting thing to experiment with….but first she wanted Haruko.
___
As Koibito confronted the heroic group, Shinshi was about to encounter the second Konran Kishi. The white rabbit like creature was panting as the various slimes he had just taken out were now reforming. “Damn! Are there no end to these vial creatures. Koibito Kishi has really out done herself with this batch.” “Yes despite that girls particular interests her powers are quite fearsome.” The white rabbit spun around to see the menacing Shadow Knight, Makai Kishi. “Damn not you too Makai! I should have realized Koibito wasn’t smart enough to create this elaborate plot.” The Konran Kishi chuckled softly. “Your words flatter me especially when they are coming from the Great White Knight. Or should I say former White Knight. Let me ask you something, how does it feels to know that you have been cursed into that pathetic excuse for a body? To know that you resemble a stuff animal helpless while your Queen's life force fades…” The White Knight seemed to snap as he lunged at the Black Knight. “En Garde You TRAIRTIOUS BASTARD!” However despite Shinshi best efforts Makai simply swatted him down with a backhand. “Please White Knight. Do not temp me. In your current state it would be soooo easy to slay you. However there would be no sport in that. If you are going to come at me I suggest you do it in your true form.”
Before Makai said another word suddenly a smaller Konton Crystal in his hand began to glow as did the silver gem in Shinshi’s forehead. A beautiful rose colored light began to glow in the direction where Kusuri was. Shinshi’s eyes widen in shock, “Oh no Kusuri.” Makai simply chuckled. “Ah it seems the Ruby Heart has finally come out to play.”
___
Warden glanced back and forth between the halves of the slime, noting with annoyance that they were regenerating. Wonderful. He knew very well how annoying that power could be. "Don't cut them!" He yelled to the others. "That includes you, Ariana. Kusuri, away from the tree, now!" The eyes on the back of his head had picked up the slime crawling down the trunk. While he didn't care for the girl, with how much she knew, she was likely useful.
Now, how was he going to fight these things? Claws and fangs did him little good. He could possibly formulate an acid, but it would take time to find one that worked. His train of thought was interrupted by slime tearing through him like a shotgun through paper. Small, scattered holes appeared in his body and he dropped flat, partially from the existing damage and partially to avoid more. He had a plan. He elongated, wounds sealing as he lost the parts they were on. A wide, flat thing lunged back, floating down over the slime things attacking Leora to envelop them and contain them. He began tasting them, seeking their chemical composition.
Ariana mumbled in irritation. If she couldn't cut them, what could she do? Then they attacked her daddy. With a fearsome(for an 8 year old) battle roar, she lunged for one of the cute slime girls that had attacked him and threw a kick at one of their backs. Her foot simply sank into its body. These things were cool, even if they were evil. "Arragh! Leggo! Let gooooohhhhhh..." Her eyes took a sleepy, confused look as the chemicals covering her leg began to sink in. A few feet away, Warden realized just a second too late that she was no longer with Leora.
Loveline reacted first to the slimes attacking Leora, pushing her down and swatting away one of the tentacles with her dragon claw. She felt a slight jolt of pleasure where the claw connected with the slime, but payed no attention to it.
"This way." She said, pulling Leora with her normal hand between some slimes while making an illusion that made it seem as though they were running the other way. They got away a moment before Warden covered the slimes with his body. But they weren't out of problems just yet.
Love noticed that Ariana was stuck. "Come on, we need to help her!" She told Leora and turned her claw back into a normal hand. Not like it was much use anyway.
Tokyo, Japan
The sound of an alarm clock began to ring within a small apartment, the digital clock was quite adorable being brightly covered with multiple chibi anime character animating on the screen to wake up the 17 year in bed. Kusuri Inoue grumbled a little as she reached over to shut off her alarm clock; laying on top of the girl was a white rabbit like animal with a silver gem in its forehead, the young nurse spotted the date on the clock and suddenly her eyes widen and she sat up with a start. “Oh my god I almost forgot about it!” The white rabbit jumped with a start nearly falling across the room till it landed perfectly almost magically.
The creature looked at her and suddenly it spoke with a surprisingly sophisticated tone (yet it mouth did not move), “You act like it’s a surprise you forgot something. What did you forget this time girlie?” Kusuri gave the rabbit a stern look, “I don’t forget things all the Shinshi just you know….most of the time.” Shinshi rolled its eyes as Kusuri continued, “Besides that why I set the alarm clock this time. Because today is the Nadeshiko Festival!” Shinshi again titled his head slightly at the girl and spoke (somehow) “And what pray tell is the Na-sha-ko festival.” Kusuri quickly hopped out of bed as she began picking out her clothes for the day, “It’s the Nadeshiko festival, and it’s a huge festival to flowers, plants, fragrances, and life that is held at Gurīnraifu Park every year. I promise my friends we would all go to it together and enjoy the day.” Shinshi barely paid any attention to the girl, “A festival for flowers sounds dreadfully boring and girly.” Kusuri turned towards the rabbit glaring “It is not boring…it so amazing all these fresh flowers decorate the park and it’s full of color and life. It’s a fun time for everyone and I can’t wait to share it with my friends.” Shinshi mumbled under his breath about it still sounding girly however he kept mum when the girl rounded on him again. “I been so busy studying and interning that I barely have time for friends. Plus with my duties as a Gem Girl I feel like we are growing distant but today is going to be the best day ever.” The White Rabbit still didn’t care for this flower festival while he understood Kusuri need to be with her friends; after all she was still 17, as one of the magical Gem Girls she had a duty. One that was greater than the wants of a 17 year old girl and festival about flowers she was the Ruby Heart and her first priority should have been finding the other Gem Girls and uniting them and their magic against the Evil Konton Crystal Queen. However Shinshi trusted the girl enough that should would do what was necessary when it came time so one day couldn’t hurt. Unbeknownst to Shinshi and Kusuri…..
___
The Konton Crystal Dimension
Within Konton Castle, a nearly impenetrable fortress located within a hidden dimension where the Evil Konton Crystal Queen reigned at her full power, sat the Queen herself on a violet throne in one a dark scepter with purple crystal at the top. Behind her one could make out several shadowy figures. Just in front her was large tablet with several some crystals imbedded in that glowed dimly. “Hmm it seems that the Mahoseki are starting to appear. It’s time my reign grows and I finally defeat those Mahoseki Warriors once and for all by collected the Gems.” The evil queen let out a dark laugh as she created a swirling pool of energy to locate exactly where the Gems would be appearing. Slowly an image began to form in the mass of swirling energy revealing a park decorated with flowers. One of the shadowy figures step out into the light (what one could assume was male) in a full suite of dark purple metal armor, “That seems to be Tokyo, Japan Madam.” The Konton Queen turned towards him, he was one of her infamous Konran Kishi who led groups of her evil army “You seem familiar with this place Makai Kishi.”
The Metal Knight nodded his head slowly, “Yes mam I have some knowledge of this human city. I am familiar enough with the area that I can find the Mahoseki in no time.” A smirk played on the evil queen’s lips “Those are bold words Makai Kishi.” Another figure stepped out of the shadows revealing a young girl whose entire body seemed to be made of a light green slime, “Don’t worry Mistress I will aid him with my Utsukushī.” The Konton Queen smiled a little at her second Konran Kishi, “Hmm okay Koibito Kishi as long as Makai accepts then there is no reason for me not to object. After all what can seem weak humans do to two of my Konran Kishi the leaders of my Konran Army. HAHAHHAHAHAHA! The evil crystal queen’s dark laughter filled the halls of her palace until she broke it a sinister look coming in her eyes. “However should you two fail me…I will personally see that your punishment is as slow and cruel as possible.” Neither Makai nor Koibito said anything however from the shadows the other Konran Kishi could not hide a smirk or two. Makai broke the silence his voice as cold as steel, “Don’t worry My Lady we will not fail you.” The Queen smirked again as she created a portal of swirling energy that would take the two to Tokyo as well as a glowing purple crystal. “Take a Konton crystal with you. It will corrupt the body, mind, and soul of a heartbroken individual and allow their inner chaos to reign. That should be enough for any humans to deal with while you two find the Mahoseki.” Makai took the Konton Crystal and nodded a silent thank you as both him and Koibito stepped into the portal.
___
Warden watched the girls like a hawk, extra eyes hidden beneath his hair, watching the world around him in infrared. Ariana had insisted he stay back a little so she could chatter at the older girl unfiltered. Likely because she was talking about pirates and the words she had learned from them. After Arthur had helped him out on Nassau, he had offered to let Loveline have a playdate with Ariana, since they could both use the company of other children.
Arthur had graciously gotten them to Tokyo, where some sort of parade or festival was going on. Against his better judgement, he accepted this location. Why? Why? Ariana was worrying enough on her own on a sparsely populated island. Now she had an accomplice to drag into danger, heading towards a park with untold amounts of people. This idea was terrible. Why did he let Arthur talk him into this. Why?
While Warden was having his breakdown, Ariana was having the time of her life. She had a captive audience in Loveline, one of the first people her age she had been allowed to talk to in years, and Warden was actually letting her do something. A flower festival was hardly an adventure, but it might as well be one. "...and it turned out he was evil!!" He dropped a major twist in the story of her life to Loveline, awaiting her amazed reaction.
Loveline was glad that she was going to this flower festival. She wanted to go for a while now, but she wasn't that optimistic that dad would let her. He would probably want to stay with Hazel and since Loveline's only eleven years old, he wouldn't let her be in Japan alone. Luckily, the frost mage made some good friends in Nassau who just so happened to be willing to take her there so both of them could be happy.
So far, Loveline liked the friends Arthur made. Warden seemed a bit over-protective of Ariana, but he was a nice person over all. Must have been, or Arthur wouldn't have let him take Love with him. Ariana on the other hand seemed very cheerful and friendly. And she apparently liked to tell stories based on real events. Since Arthur already told Loveline the whole story of Nassau, she could notice the parts that Ariana embellished. But honestly? She preferred Ariana's version.
"Gasp." She feigned surprise and shock at the big reveal. "What did you do then?"
___
Leora is walking through the park and was glad that she could make it to the flower festival in Tokyo. She was there today as a guest for an organization that had made significant donations to charities that Leora was a member of and they ask her to come to the festival as a way to celebrate both of their accomplishments in the summer season. Leora normally would want to help people nonstop, but building the relationship between such a generous organization and charities would help so many people in the long run.
Leora continues to walk and every step she took seems to add to the beauty of the flowers around her and the flowers to her. Each of the flowers was arrange in such a graceful and colorful way that they compliment each other to the fullest and with Leora’s presence it could be consider a match made in heaven. Leora was just wearing her simple white dress, but many eyes were looking at her. Not in lust or anything wrong, but rather looking at her because she was emitting an aura that was overwhelming with such positive and pleasant emotions that just added to the festive spirit.
Leora was planning on going to a small party with some representatives of the origination mention earlier and they were having the gathering in the flower festival. Leora moves to the location she was given and stops. She notices Warden. I can’t belief it. It’s Warden. I need to say hello to him, she thought. She goes to Warden and with her sweet and gentle voice she says in a cheerful manner, “Hello Mr. Warden! It’s sooooo good to see you again.” Leora said this while giving him a warm hug that probably could have won the best hug of the year award. She exits the embrace slowly and continues by saying, “I’m really happy that I get to see you and Ariana again." Leora looks at Ariana to see her with another girl, who appears to be around her age. Leora was glad to see Ariana as well. "I hope the two of you are enjoying your time here in this time,” she says with a playful wink at the corny joke she just made. Which was quickly followed by a short wonderful laugh that brought with it her vibrant and contiguous smile that could relieve almost any ill feelings that a person might be having, which would be replace with a joyful sensation and smile of their own.Sitting on one of the numerous park benches, Haruko Miyata looks out at the beautiful scenery filled with dozens of different kinds of flowers. Instead of her normal battle attire, Haruko wore a simple lacy blue t-shirt over a pair of white shorts. A small expensive-looking camera hung around her neck by it's strap, having already been used to photograph much of the flower festival. In her lap rested a simple sketchbook with a light outline of various shirts and dresses, each having a different design based off of the scenery in front of her.
The main reason why Haruko was back in Japan was simple; to actually have a proper vacation in this country. After the Osaka incident, she had decided to keep her travels this time limited to Tokyo, which fortunately was holding this flower festival while she was still in the country. So in addition to admiring the scenery, Haruko figured she could try and sketch some new designs for her line of clothing. Something as flowery and vibrant as this scenery would surely draw some attention from the people visiting her shop in California.
Mid-sketching another shirt though, the pink-haired seamstress detects a few familiar ki signatures coming from the right. Looking over, she found Ariana and Loveline strolling along the path. Further back, she could see Warden conversing with the pleasant lady she met at Nassau. What a mess that adventure turned out to be. Waving at them slightly, she smiled as they approached. "Hey! Fancy meeting you guys here."
___
Kusuri arrived to the Nadeshiko Festival with light footsteps and a big smile wearing a simple t-shirt with some of her favorite anime characters on it along with a pair of jeans. The Gem Girl had on a back pack with some goodies for the day, following behind her was Shinshi. The White Rabbit let out a sigh then again spoke to Kusuri without moving its mouth. “Jeez Girl could have slowed down a bit. I had to run after you which is not an easy task in this body.” The young girl laughed a little taking out a small carrot and handing it to the rabbit, “I’m sorry Shinshi. I promise my friends I would be here at a certain time and it’s important that I’m here because I promised to bring snacks so we can picnic.” Shinshi reluctantly munched despite being a rabbit carrots were probably his least favorite food.
“So where are you supposed to meet your friends girl? I don’t see them around.” The Nurse in training laughed a little, “Oh well they won’t be here for at least thirty minutes.” Shinshi comically reacted to this revelation, “But you said you were late earlier! We ran all the way just so you didn’t miss them! If you were going to be early why did you rush?” The Gem Girl just titled her head and laughed a little, “Well because I’m always late I decided to leave earlier so that no matter what I wouldn’t be late. Besides now we can look at some the flowers before they arrive.” Shinshi dropped his head unable to reply to that logic.
Kusuri and Shinshi casually walked through the park taking in all the sights and sounds of the Nadeshiko festival. The park was a beautiful collage of vibrant colors, a sweet fragrance of combined aromas from the flowers and fried food, and a calming melody of music from the band playing. As Kusuri walked around she took notice of some people including a young girl doing some sketches. It seemed the girl was soon greeted by friends she knew. Kusuri even walked passed one of the prettiest girls she ever seen who seemed to make everything around her even more beautiful. It seemed like everyone was having an amazing day.
___
However as everyone was enjoying the Nadeshiko Festival a powerful evil was about to bloom as Makai and Koibito emerged a swirling pull of shadowy energy into Japan. The slime girl was delighted by the sights and sounds of the human. She gazed down and saw the park where the Nadeshiko Festival was taking place. “Oh wow there should is a lot of humans down there is this some sort of ritual.” The Shadow Knight reply was cold, “No humans are small minded creatures and take pleasure in the most trivial elements. This is a festival to celebrate flowers.”
Koibito was still impressed with it despite Makai’s negative statement, “Hmm if they are impressed with that wait till they get a load of me.” Before The Slime Knight could act on her instinct Makai placed a hand on her shoulder, “Remember our mission Koibito we are here to find the Mahoseki. We don’t have time for you to indulge yourself in pleasure.” The Slime Girl sighed a little as she turned towards Knight her slime body shifting to a sultrier more with a bigger bust and rump. “You know Makai you need to lighten up. You take things ways to seriously. How about you remove this armor and indulge in some pleasure yourself.” Makai pushed the girl away and she shifted more this time taking on a more boyish form, Hmm women not your thing Makai. What about boys? Or are you a Lolita fan?” The Slime Girl shifted form to her original appearance but the Knight didn’t respond making Koibito pout. “You are no fun Makai.”
___
Leroa's dumb joke and hug brought a warmth to Warden's heart that was rarely seen. He smiled down at the wonderful woman. "Leora, let go. You're restricting my movement." He could easily struggle free, but exerting any force on Leora seemed impossible, and body manipulation would draw too much attention. He was surprised to see that Haruko was here as well. "Hello Haruko. I'm guessing we're all here for the flower festival?" While he liked seeing so many allies here, it was always worrying to see this many hidden world members in one spot. Something was going to happen.
Ariana was less worried. "Jardsam saved me. He made the robots melt by making a rule and the Master said 'screw the rules!' and stabbed him in the face but it didn't hurt him and they kept fighting until your dad came and stopped them right before he stabbed me and he jumped out the window because the other Demon Gods showed up and Jardsam acted really weird with them!" She took a moment to take a breath and noticed the newcomers. "Leora! Haruko!" She joined the hug with Leora and Warden. "These two were on Nassau too!" She informed Loveline. These two were fun for grown ups and they could fill the gaps in her story. Which reminded her "And one of them just looked at Jardsam and..."
"Looks like we are Warden! What a coincidence to find you all here." Smiling, Haruko puts away her pen and sketchbook into her Kaspa and joins the group hug right behind Leora. She knew Warden hated hugs, but she figured he wouldn't hurt Leora or Ariana, so it was safe to use them as a sort of meat shield.
"Nice seeing you all again! How have things been with you all?" She makes a quick glance from Warden, to Leora, Ariana, and finally Loveline. Odd how she was here without Arthur...but not odd enough to ask about.
Before Leora could get a chance to say anything to Haruko, Haruko decided to join the group hug. Leora was just smiling at Haruko for the kind greeting and says, "It's great to sea you again Haruko. And so far I've been doing my best to help some folks in need. It's the reason I'm here actually. You see later I got to go to this party that is being host by my charity's biggest donor. Anyway how have you been?"
Leora was really happy to see everyone enjoying themselves....with maybe the exception of Warden, who looked a little unease. Leora could tell that he was thinking about something. "Is everything okay?" she asks in her sweet and innocent voice, which could move the very soul of a person.
It didn't take long for Warden and Ariana to meet people who know them. Unfortunately, they were all apparently the hugging kind of people. Not even Leora's magnificent aura could stop Loveline from feeling awkward while watching the hug pile-up and being left out of it. Luckily, it didn't last too long and they moved on to conversing about how they spent their time since they last met, again leaving Loveline out of it because, of course, she was a stranger in this group. But she won't let it stay that way for long!
"Won't you introduce me to your friends first?" Loveline interrupted Ariana's story and looked at her with an expectant smile.
The Power of the Konton Crystal
As Kusuri wandered around the Nadeshiko Festival waiting for her friends she began to take some pictures of all the beautiful flowers and all the fun events going on around her. She took notice of a group of people who were seemingly hugging. “Oh wow Shinshi look at that all those people. The most be really good friends uniting after a long time at the festival.” The White Rabbit rolled his eyes as it spoke to the young girl “What gave it away, that they are all embracing? You humans tend to show your affections in the weirdest way.” The nurse in training glared at the rabbit. “There is nothing wrong with a hug between friends.” The young girl quickly rushed over to the group smiling, she didn’t want to interrupt them so she politely cleared her throat to get their attention. “Um excuse me everyone. My name is Kusuri Inoue. I don’t mean to interrupt but I was just taking some pictures of the festival when I saw you. I wondered if you would be okay with me taking your picture. After all you seem like such good friends I thought you would want something to remember today by.”
The White Rabbit followed behind the girl who represented the Ruby Heart, he still had trouble believing that his Queen entrusted this girl with the future of the Mahoseki. Kusuri was an untrained girl who barely had a grasp on the potential of her abilities, she rather spend the time friends than mastering control of the Mahoseki she possessed. The rabbit sighed he once was a guardian to the Queen now he was the guardian to a teen girl being constantly drawn into her silly plans. The rabbit drew closer to group that Kusuri wanted to photograph when the tiny silver gem in his head began to glow his eyes widening a little. “What a Mahoseki is going to appear? But why here? This magical charge is so strong. I never felt anything like it before.” The White Rabbit began to glance around before running off leaving Kusuri behind as he searched for where the gems could appear. The young girl noticed her pet run off. “Wait Shinshi where are you going?”
___
Meanwhile as Shinshi searched for where the Magical Gems could appear the two Konran Kishi plotted. Koibito the Suraimu Kishi was growing quite impatient, “Makai we are wasting time here for all we knew the Mahoseki could be appearing already.” Makai the Kage Kishi grunted a little from within his shadowy armor, “Do not be a fool Koibito. If the Mahoseki did appear we would be altered by the Konton Crystal. The Mahoseki and Konton Crystal work like opposite charges; one positive the other negative. Therefore there are slightly attractive to each other and react strongly to one another’s presence. The power of the Konton Crystal is that it can twist, corrupt, and distort everything in an environment or individual.” Despite Makai’s explanation Koibito could care less, “This is sooooooooooo boring. If the two react to each other then let’s just go down there and stir up trouble to force the Mahoseki to appear.”
The slime girl’s impatient was testing Makai’s patience he yet again corrected her, “I said don’t be a fool girl! There are other factors here that could affect our mission. In this dimension there are certain individuals who possessed great powers without either the Mahoseki or Konton Crystal.” The Suraimu Kishi smirked a little becoming more interested, “Hmmm oh really now they sounds like fun. Humans with their own powers I got to see this.” Makai let out a dark chuckle, “Oh you will as a part of my plan. With your Utsukushī you can distract those humans long enough for me to use the Konton Crystal to draw out the Mahoseki. Then I will target the Ruby Heart.” Koibito titled her head curiously, “Why is the Ruby Heart so important? Shouldn’t the Mahoseki be our top priority?” The Kage Kishi chuckled again, “Silly girl you should pay attention more, instead of trying to gain more lovers. Whle individually the Ruby Heart is the weakest of the Mahoseki combined with the others it becomes the most powerful. Not only boosting the others but gaining strength from them. Therefore by dealing with the Ruby Heart you essentially weaken the others.”
The Slime Girl smirked a bit as she began creating her Utsukushī, slime clones that represented all the lovers she had acquired, a number reaching in the hundreds. The Utsukushī were vague forms of men, women, and children made entirely of green slime. Despite being naked their features were non-existent just various curves here and there. The slime clones began to shift to blobs and spread out preparing to strike. However before Koibito left she had one last question for Makai, “Something I am curious about Makai. You not only seem to know a lot about this world even knowing this city, but these people and knowledge about their forces. How did you gather all this information?” The Kage Kishi was silent for a moment before letting out a deep sigh, “As I said earlier you should pay attention more girl. My Kage no Me allows me to view everything from the shadows. I rather not spend my time in bed.” Koibito giggled a little, “Oh Makai one day I’ll get you out of that armor and show you what kind of information I gather from my bed.” With that the girl slimed away to await orders. Meanwhile Makai held the Konton Crystal, “Now Ruby Heart you will learn the power of the Konton Crystal.”
___
"I told you that you're restricting my movement." With a series of movements that were too subtle to perceive, he was out of the group hug. Ariana left easier, just turning to find Loveline standing, looking completely left out. She didn't have a lick of shyness, despite some odd social quirks that came from her upbringing. It hadn't occurred to her that Love might be a little shy in the face of this many strangers.
"I met Leora on Nassau, and Haruko right before I went there. Haruko's really fun and Leora's really nice!" While she really didn't know either enough to really form a relationship with them, Ariana made friends quickly, mostly out of having no other choice. When you move a lot, make friends quick or give up on having them. Haruko felt like a cool older sister, nice and fun, a replacement for Eve on her good days. Leora was a bit different. She was still thankful for her comfort on Nassau when Ariana was afraid of the Harvester. She felt like she would be great mom. But Warden of course didn't care about anybody like that. Whatever like that meant.
She couldn't leave Love out of the hugs of course. Even if the others were strangers, she wasn't! "Do you want in on the hugs?" She outstretched her arms, hugging Loveline only if she accepted. If she was already uncomfortable, Ariana didn't want to scare her away. Warden's eyes were the only out of the two's who noticed the newcomer. A local or another tourist? He couldn't tell. She talked about photos and Ariana needed no further cue. She blushed and hid her face a little. "I'm afraid my daughter is camera shy." Warden's words were directed at the young girl, but his eyes were locked on the small animal beside her. He didn't recognize the species, although it was clearly a mammal. A quick switch to thermal confirmed that. It's head was glowing. He didn't have time to appreciate Ariana's acting- he had a matter more pressing than a photograph on his mind.
"Who are you?" There was no threat in his voice with Leora there, but he was clearly asking for more than her name. He grabbed her wrist with a grip of steel as she turned to watch the leaving creature. He didn't need her running. "And what is that?"
Leora felt a tiny bit sad when Loveline was feeling that terrible sensation of not belonging. Leora walks up to the young girl and crouches down to her eye level saying with a somewhat embarrassed face, "I'm sorry. I really should have acknowledge you better. I hope you can forgive me." as Leora was asking for forgiveness, she was also stroking the back of her head as if she made a silly mistake, then suddenly Leora face changes as if she just got a great idea. Leora the says, "Well how about this " Leora then gently puts her hands together with Loveline's hands and says with her world class smile that made the world feel like a brighter and friendlier place, "We'll become friends and then if you want we can have another group hug later when you get to know everyone else." Leora let that statement hang in the air for a few seconds before she follows up by tilting her head slightly and says with a cute chuckle "Even though it going to be a little difficult to convince Warden over there."
Leora releases Loveline hands and turns her head, so she could be facing Warden. She was going to say to Loveline that Warden is actually a nice guy even though he can be a little intimidating, but stop herself when she saw Warden's steel grip on another person. Leora then laughs more to herself then anything and looks back at Loveline saying, "Maybe its going to take a lot of convincing." Leora wasn't worried about the girl. Thanks to her compassionate understanding ability, she knew that Warden was just being his usual overprotective self and not really trying to harm the girl. The girl on the other hand was too sweat for Leora to think she could possible turn out to be a enemy.
Leora says to Loveline and Ariana in a playful voice, "Sorry girls, I need to apologize for someone real quick." Leora gracefully gets back up and walks over to Warden. "Warden isn't there a better way to say no to someone taking your picture?" asks Leora. Leora than places her hand on Warden's hand and uses her physically happiness ability to relax Warden's hand to the point of releasing his grip on the girl's wrist along with calming down the girl that Warden grabbed as well. Leora bows her head in an apologetic bow saying, "Please forgive my friend over here." Even in this position, Leora seem to emulate a type of aura that would resonate warmly with a person's very existence.
Loveline was surprised how big of a deal the slight awkwardness had become, but she couldn't complain. It was entertaining, to say the least. She naturally accepted Ariana's hug and even hugged back. Then she listened to Leora's apology and suppressed a chuckle. "Sure, a second hug sounds wonderful." She replied and watched the avatar of goodwill and compassion go take care of the Warden/Kusuri problem. Then she turned back to Ariana and whispered "You really have some weird friends, you know?"
On second thought, she wasn't the only one with weird friends. Really, superpowered people were either weird or had weird friends. Love wondered which one she would be when she grows up but she quickly shook the question away. "Should we help her calm the situation down or do you want to continue your story?" She asked Ariana.
Haruko noticed Warden approach Kusuri and grab hold of her, asking what exactly was the interesting creature that she had with her originally. The battle seamstress was about to step in between the two...but luckily Leora was there to save the day with her emotion manipulation powers. Well...I suppose there is no need to diffuse a situation if you have Leora around, is there? Haruko thinks to herself, smiling a little.
Walking over to Kusuri, Warden and Leora, Haruko looks at the new arrival. "Why, hello there Kusuri! My name is Haruko Miyata, nice to meet you. I noticed you had an interesting pet back there...what kind of animal was that?" She asks, trying to strike up a friendly conversation with Kusuri while Leora handled Warden.
Slime Ambush!
Before Kusuri had even a split second to think about where Shinshi was running off to one of the people, a tall thin man, grabbed the girl’s wrist demanding answers about her pet rabbit. The young nurse in training panicked as the man gave off a threatening aura. His grip was like steel not allowing her to pull away. “Um…Um…I…don’t…know what…you are….talking about? Shinshi is just my pet. I told you my name was Kusuri Inoue I just wanted to take your picture.” She held up the camera to show him she meant no harm.
___
Meanwhile as Warden was confronting Kusuri, Makai was setting up his trapped to lure out the Mahoseki and Ruby Heart. The Kage Kishi suddenly emerged from the shadows of some trees located away from the others. He communicated to Koibito through a smaller Konton Crystal that all the Konran Kishi used it allowed them to communicate magically without fear of being interfered with. “Now listen carefully Koibito when I give the signal you strike at the humans with your Utsukushī I will use the Konton Crystal to create an unstoppable monster. When Ruby Heart appears I will single her out and fight her allowing us to capture the other Mahoseki they appear.” Koibito reply came through the crystal, one could sense the excitement in her voice. “Oh Makai this is wonderfully it reminds me of the Gem Wars. There are so many delicious looking humans here. I will have to take a couple back with me to interrogate.” Makai sighed a little, despite the slime girl being one of the more powerful Konran Kishi her attention was always more focused on lust and therefore one of the most unpredictable. “Hey Makai you still haven’t said what you will corrupt using the Konton Crystal?” The Kage Kishi gripped the Konton Crystal, some arrogance bleeding into his metallic voice. “Hmmm that is simple girl. I plan to use the Konton Crystal to corrupt this whole festival. As I mention before this is a festival for flowers. The Konton Crystal can only corrupt living things some as humans, animals, or even every single plant these pathetic humans planted. I’m going to plant my own seeds into this soil to turn their festival into a nightmare.” Both Koibito and Makai started laughing manically as he plunged his fist and the crystal into the dirt causing several darks purple sparks and electricity to flow through the ground. Anyone with bit of magical/ki/NE/whatever what sense a slight shift but wouldn’t see the effects till later.
___
Back to Kusuri she was trying to find suitable answers for Warden when one of the girls from his group approached the two of them. The women instantly gave off the polar opposite aura than what the man did. She was like the living embodiment of kindness. Her voice was light and airy it calmed Kusuri and she felt the man’s grip relax (apparently his name was Warden from what the women said). When Leora bowed her head and apologized the nurse in training was quite surprised and felt like she should be the one apologizing from some reason. “No, no it’s okay. I’m sure your friend didn’t mean it Shinshi usually doesn’t act like that. I just wanted to take a picture of you all because you seem like such good friends my name is Kusuri.”
Another one of the girls came over and politely introduced herself as Haruko Miyata, “Nice to meet you Haruko. As for Shinshi I’m not entirely sure what kind of animal he is.” Kusuri had to think for a minute she couldn’t quite reveal that she was some type of magical girl and Shinshi was a magical rabbit. “I find him lost one day and he became quite close to me. He is a bit stubborn sometimes but I never really ran off like that before. Maybe he just got skittish from all the people around.” As Kusuri spoke she reached out and touched Haruko hand and instantly felt something strange. The ruby heart necklace she wore around her neck seemed to resonate with everything around her and glowed a bit. The Ruby Heart fit felt a small surge of magical energy that make her tremble rendering her speechless. Kusuri was sure what to make of it as she pulled away from Haruko however before she could process what just happen an chorus of panic screams began to break out all around and people ran in different directions. “What’s going on?” Kusuri turned around and was terrified to witness some strange green blobs emerging from the ground, trees, and bushes forming into shapes of men and women. The ruby heart around her neck began to glow again as she realized this was an attack form the Konton Crystal Queen.
___
Meanwhile Shinshi was rushing around trying to determine the source of Mahoseki magical energy yet the power some to be coming from all directions let something was out of flux. Despite his promise to his Queen to protect and train Kusuri to be a great Mahoseki Gem Warrior finding the other magic gems were more important to him. There was a bit of selfishness to his desires finding the other Mahoseki meant new Gem Warriors could be recruited which meant Kusuri would not be needed as much. And when Kusuri was needed he wouldn’t have to train her and he could once again return to his solemn duty protecting his Queen. Before Shinshi could continue his search his own senses picked up on the slime clone emerging around him. One even appeared right in front of him, but the White Rabbit would not be hindered. “I beg your pardon but….GET OUT OF MY WAY!” In a blur of silver energy Shinshi turned into a silver comet as he began to spin like a high powered drill going straight through the slime clone destroying it instantly. Shinshi landed on the ground perfectly as more slime closed in around him. "These slime creatures could only be the work of Koibito Kishi. But that means…..Oh no! The Konran Kishi are on the trail of the Mahoseki as well! Kusuri can handle these slime creatures by herself I need to find those other gems. After all I trained the girl well enough she needs to learn on her own now! Kusuri has been acting like a girl for far too long she needs to choice not to step up and accept the responsibilities of the powers the Queen bestowed upon her. I am not a baby sitter I am a Guardian of the Mahoseki and my Beloved Queen! You disgusting slimes are hindering my mission and that is something. I….CANNOT….ALLOW!”
___
"Leora isn't weird!" Ariana protested, defending her older friend against the nonexistent insult. At the question of whether to help or not, she turned to survey the situation. "Leora looks like she has it." Indeed she did, as Warden released his grip. His muscles had relaxed on their own, but he withdrew his hand by choice. “No, no it’s okay. I’m sure your friend didn’t mean it. Shinshi usually doesn’t act like that. I just wanted to take a picture of you all because you seem like such good friends my name is Kusuri.”
The way she babbled reminded him of Ariana when she got excited, made of run on sentences and too few breaks for air. She wouldn't take much pushing to let something of interest slip from her lips. Force wasn't an option in his present company, so he'd just play it smart. He could do that. "I'm sorry if I frightened you. I didn't mean to." A simple tweak to his face and his smile rivaled Leora's in warmth and friendliness. "I simply wanted to know what sort of animal it was." He offered his hand again, this time to shake. "I'm Warden Harper, and this is my daughter Ariana." Just keep her talking. She'd have to reveal something.
Before she responded to his gesture, his ears began picking up the very first scream. Before it finished, he had seen the green slime approaching. He had sealed his body against it, mouth and nose covered up in bone. He had turned his arms into great scissored claws, although he didn't know how much that would do against creatures more malleable than himself. He had grown tentacles from his leftover flesh, his chest a writhing mass. He moved in front of Ariana, swinging his gigantic bone claws at the nearest being of slime.
Ariana instantly gravitated towards Leora when Warden began stomping around. She pulled her knife from the hidden pocket in her backpack, ready to defend somebody else for once. It made it better that it was Leora. She owed her, and while she wouldn't admit it, having her calming powers was pretty nice when things were getting rough around her.
Leora was hoping that the girl wasn't hurt by Warden's grip. Knowing him, he probably was being overprotective of Ariana again. Leora sighs to herself when she hears Ariana yelling. So Loveline thinks I'm weird, Leora says to herself in a somewhat depressing mood. I knew I should have hugged her sooner. [Leora, you don't have time to regret not hugging someone right now.] Leora's mood turns rather serious and asks, What's wrong Compassion? [It seems that a certain Queen has sent her forces to attack the flower festival.] Queen? asks Leora. [The Konton Crystal Queen to be more precise. Trust me when I say that she is a dangerous threat, but thankfully she isn't participating in this battle herself.] So who's attacking then?
Suddenly the air itself begins to carry a certain twisted breeze that would cause goosebumps to appear. It was a clear warning sign of a unwanted supernatural event taking place, and as quickly as the breeze was felt, it disappears into the endless night. What was that? asks Leora. [Your senses. Its seems that you are feeling that something is currently happing. Something unnatural and corrupted.] We have to stop it! [It's too late Leora, the Queen's troops have already cast their spell.] Leora studies the others as they were talking to each other. Leora looks at the Kusuri, who seems to notice that something was wrong, which was quickly followed by Warden. Leora could feel the suffering of the poor unexpected victims, as their agony rings throughout the air and resonates with Leora's being. WHAT"S GOING ON!? Leora turns around to see green slime monsters attacking. Warden quickly transform his body in order to defend against this new threat. Ariana moves toward Leora as Warden deals with the Nickelodeon slime monsters.
Leora then gently places her hand on Loveline and pulls her softly within arm's range. Leora had no clue if the young girl was capable of protecting herself and she wasn't going to risk it. A few slime creatures approach Leora. Leora in turn uses her Physical Happiness ability to stop the slime's movements. The Slime creatures didn't just stop, they slowly start to change shape until they turn into a puddle of still slime. Compassion is there a way to stop this? [Your best chance is to work together with the one call Kusuri. She is everyone's best chance of surviving this experience.] "Kusuri" said Leora. "We need you right now." Leora didn't know how Kusuri was suppose to help, but Compassion seems certain that she was the key to all of this.
"S- Sorry. I didn't mean it in a bad way..." Loveline said after Ariana yelled at her. A minute or so later, after it was decided that Leora could handle the Warden/Kusuri situation on her own, Loveline looked around trying to find something interesting to do and/or pretty flowers to look at. That's why she noticed the slimes at the same time Warden did. She was going to get ready for a fight just like the shapeshifter, but Leora had other plans and pulled her closer. Was she worried? About a girl she never met before? Heh, she really was a weird person, but she was also very sweet.
"It's okay, you don't have to worry about me." Loveline said and patted Leora's hand. "I can take care of myself." She stepped forward, next to Ariana, and the hand that was on Leora's just a second ago turned into a dragon's claw with razor sharp nails. Though she was nervous. Truth be told, she never really fought on her own very much. Usually she chased people away with illusions and if that didn't work, she would turn someone, usually one of the intruders, into a beast which would kill the others. That is not to say she never dirtied her hands, but she still didn't have much experience.
And it's been almost two years since she had to do any of that (Oh, how time flies). Hopefully, some slimes wouldn't pose a problem even if she is rusty.
Haruko stared as Kusuri touched her hand, then reeled back as if she had touched an electrified door knob. Before she could ask Kusuri what was wrong, a scream rang out through the air, instantly catching Haruko's attention. Not even ten minutes after seeing these guys, and there is already stuff going wrong. Though I'd be willing to bet that rabbit running off has something to do with these slime creatures. Note to self; ask Kusuri more questions after dealing with these guys.
Reaching into her jacket pocket, Haruko draws five of her explosive knives and takes aim at five of the nearby slime creatures. In five quick motions, all five knives fly off and fly toward their targets, the knives filled with enough gunpowder to send bits of their slimey bodies in every direction. Dang, I can't do much against slime creatures with my wires. Looks like I have to stick to using my explosive knives...however many I brought along with me. Luckily, she noticed how Warden was also lending a hand with his body manipulation, and if Arthur is to be believed, Loveline could handle herself just fine. Ariana and Leora though...they might need some assistance.
"Kusuri! Do you have any idea what these things are, or why they seemed to have shown up right after your pet took off?" Not knowing how effective Kusuri was at combat, Haruko stood next to her, explosive knives at ready. Warden and Loveline were probably more than enough to protect Ariana and Leora, so it fell onto Haruko to see just what the heck was going on.
Slime Ambush! (Part II) Koibito Attacks!
The Slime Clones of Koibito Kishi were all over the place, they were dripping down from the trees, oozing up from the ground, or plopping down from the sky before taking their vaguely humanoid shapes. Their limbs extending into tendrils that would wrap around helpless victims lifting them high into the air (often exposing the undergarments of young ladies). Some would absorb the victims into their gelatin like bodies. What most people didn’t realize about the Utsukushī and Koibito herself was that the slime that made up their bodies worked like an aphrodisiac being in contact with in would cause intense pleasure which grew stronger the longer the contact was or the more the area was covered. This caused many of the victims to slowly give in to the overwhelming pleasure turning screams of fear to those of ecstasy.
All the while Koibito watched smirking a little to herself as she mentally made note of which victims she would bring back to the Konton Crystal Dimension to turn into her mates, ravishing their body, minds, and souls before turning them into another member of her Utsukushī. That was until she took interest of a particular girl who was fighting some of her slimes with knives. The girl looked young (a plus for Koibito), cute with her pink hair and adorable outfit, and her use of knives meant she LOTS of knife play. The Slime Knight smirked a little as she decided she wanted the young pink hair girl.
Back over to Kusuri the poor girl was in a state of shock not because of the ambush of Slime Clones but because of Warden’s sudden shift into a terrifying creature of claws and tendrils. “What…what…what are you?” As Warden slashed at the slime clone its body was ripped in half with the upper section going flying. The legs remained where they were for a few moments before they started to shift and morph into a blob while the upper sections moved back to the legs reforming into another clone. Kusuri really didn’t hear what Haruko had said she was already running off into the opposite direction. “What are those guys? I never seen anyone morph their bodies like that!”
The poor girl’s heart was pounding in her chest as she hid behind a tree, “Are they with the Konran Kishi somehow. I just wanted a normal day with my friends why did I have to run into those strange people, why did these slime creatures’ choice to attack now? Are these the kind of people my brother meant what he said he wanted to investigate the Hidden World.” Despite being a Magical Gem Warrior Kusuri was still a young girl at heart and always looked to her brother for courage however it had been several months if not a year since he had sought to investigate this Hidden World and disappeared. But then she had met Shinshi…SHINSHI. “Oh no where is he? Why did he choice now to run off I need his help what do I do?” As Kusuri got closer and closer to a panic attack she didn’t notice the Utsukushī oozing down from the tree.
Meanwhile back at Haruko and the others locatios the slime clones that the Battle Seamstress had blown up sent droplets of the pleasure inducing slime in all directions including right at both Loveline and Arianna. While Leora’s Physical Happiness seemed to affect the slime clones it was for a brief moment the slime’s bodies seemed to liquefy a bit but it only seemed to make them faster and swifter. They began to maneuver around the Embodiment of Compassion in circles only then stop and simultaneously attack with whip-like tendrils of slime. The added liquid like texture of the slime increased their velocity making them even deadlier. Behind Warden two more slimes formed both in the humanoid form of young girls at first one may be taken back their slight cuteness however they were just as deadly as any other of the Slime Clones. Each one fired bullet-like projectiles at the body guard the slime bullets were aimed at his arms, legs, and back in a shotgun like volley.
Meanwhile unbeknownst to Haruko the creator of the slime clones were forming behind her, a smirk on the slime’s knight face. “Wow! When I was told that you humans were strong I wasn’t expecting this.” As Koibito Kishi spoke to the group her eyes were more focused on Haruko than anyone else. “Let me introduce myself so you may know the name of the person who will defeat you. I am Koibito, one of the Konton Crystal Queen’s powerful Konran Kishi. What you are fighting are my Utsukushī, former lovers of mine who I turned into my perfect slime slaves. Each one has a hundredth of my actual strength.” The slime girl licked her lips as she waited for one of the humans to attack her slimes forming all around them. She wanted to draw Haruko away from the group so that she could take her first, then Warden seeing as his powers were similar to hers he could be a great playmate. The two Lolis were cute but would break easily and finally Leora her magic abilities would be an interesting thing to experiment with….but first she wanted Haruko.
___
As Koibito confronted the heroic group, Shinshi was about to encounter the second Konran Kishi. The white rabbit like creature was panting as the various slimes he had just taken out were now reforming. “Damn! Are there no end to these vial creatures. Koibito Kishi has really out done herself with this batch.” “Yes despite that girls particular interests her powers are quite fearsome.” The white rabbit spun around to see the menacing Shadow Knight, Makai Kishi. “Damn not you too Makai! I should have realized Koibito wasn’t smart enough to create this elaborate plot.” The Konran Kishi chuckled softly. “Your words flatter me especially when they are coming from the Great White Knight. Or should I say former White Knight. Let me ask you something, how does it feels to know that you have been cursed into that pathetic excuse for a body? To know that you resemble a stuff animal helpless while your Queen's life force fades…” The White Knight seemed to snap as he lunged at the Black Knight. “En Garde You TRAIRTIOUS BASTARD!” However despite Shinshi best efforts Makai simply swatted him down with a backhand. “Please White Knight. Do not temp me. In your current state it would be soooo easy to slay you. However there would be no sport in that. If you are going to come at me I suggest you do it in your true form.”
Before Makai said another word suddenly a smaller Konton Crystal in his hand began to glow as did the silver gem in Shinshi’s forehead. A beautiful rose colored light began to glow in the direction where Kusuri was. Shinshi’s eyes widen in shock, “Oh no Kusuri.” Makai simply chuckled. “Ah it seems the Ruby Heart has finally come out to play.”
___
Warden glanced back and forth between the halves of the slime, noting with annoyance that they were regenerating. Wonderful. He knew very well how annoying that power could be. "Don't cut them!" He yelled to the others. "That includes you, Ariana. Kusuri, away from the tree, now!" The eyes on the back of his head had picked up the slime crawling down the trunk. While he didn't care for the girl, with how much she knew, she was likely useful.
Now, how was he going to fight these things? Claws and fangs did him little good. He could possibly formulate an acid, but it would take time to find one that worked. His train of thought was interrupted by slime tearing through him like a shotgun through paper. Small, scattered holes appeared in his body and he dropped flat, partially from the existing damage and partially to avoid more. He had a plan. He elongated, wounds sealing as he lost the parts they were on. A wide, flat thing lunged back, floating down over the slime things attacking Leora to envelop them and contain them. He began tasting them, seeking their chemical composition.
Ariana mumbled in irritation. If she couldn't cut them, what could she do? Then they attacked her daddy. With a fearsome(for an 8 year old) battle roar, she lunged for one of the cute slime girls that had attacked him and threw a kick at one of their backs. Her foot simply sank into its body. These things were cool, even if they were evil. "Arragh! Leggo! Let gooooohhhhhh..." Her eyes took a sleepy, confused look as the chemicals covering her leg began to sink in. A few feet away, Warden realized just a second too late that she was no longer with Leora.
Loveline reacted first to the slimes attacking Leora, pushing her down and swatting away one of the tentacles with her dragon claw. She felt a slight jolt of pleasure where the claw connected with the slime, but payed no attention to it.
"This way." She said, pulling Leora with her normal hand between some slimes while making an illusion that made it seem as though they were running the other way. They got away a moment before Warden covered the slimes with his body. But they weren't out of problems just yet.
Love noticed that Ariana was stuck. "Come on, we need to help her!" She told Leora and turned her claw back into a normal hand. Not like it was much use anyway.